Heavy Rain Causes Flooding in Makurdi

Several communities in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, faced flooding after a heavy rain that lasted about 12 hours from Sunday night into Monday.

The rain started on Sunday night and continued into Monday. This left many houses and streets underwater.

PUNCH Metro found out that the worst-hit areas included Achusa, Rice Mill in Wadata, Idye, and Naka Road.

The flooding got worse because of road construction and incomplete drainage channels. Some of these channels overflowed, affecting nearby communities.

A reporter who checked the situation saw that homes and eateries near construction sites and riverbanks were severely affected. Floodwater filled the streets and entered some houses.

A resident of Achusa, who goes by the name Debby, said the rain impacted many homes in her area. She mentioned, "You know that the rain started on Sunday and continued today (Monday). Though it was not that heavy, it has flooded our community and affected some residential houses."

Debby also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for trying to tackle the issue of flooding in Makurdi with ongoing road and drainage projects. She added, "However, the state government should direct the construction companies handling the roads to open some of the blocked channels to allow the free flow of water."

Debby noted, "My observation is that the indiscriminate closure of roads and streets, as well as the blockage of drainage channels, contributed to the flooding we experienced today."

When we reached out, Tema Ager, the Information Officer of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, confirmed they had received a report of flooding in Achusa. But they had not yet visited the area for an assessment.

Ager said, "Yes, we received a report of flooding in Achusa, but we have yet to go there for an assessment."